The Me-410 has always fascinated me just because it is such a potent looking aircraft. Though listed as 410 in combat, it also includes the Me-210 and its developmental struggles. Simply by changing the wing planform and lengthening the fuselage, a wickedly dangerous aircraft to fly was turned into a pilot's delight.

The book does cover both the development and combat usage of both aircraft. This includes a goodly section on the Hungarian developed Me-210ca. Used as a bomber interceptor carrying either the BK 5 50mm cannon or using WGR 210 rocket tubes, these aircraft were able to create havoc with undefended bomber streams or when they were able to penetrate the fighter cover. However, when caught by Mustangs, Lightnings and Thunderbolts, the results were a decimation of the 410 units.

In late 1944 production of the 410 was stopped to concentrate on fighters and jets. Most 410 units transitioned to the Me-262, though several were kept as night intruders, a mission they had been doing since initial operational capabilities. Hampered by a lack of radar, the 410's successes were somewhat dampened by losses to British night fighters, which carried well-developed radar systems.

Though usage dropped off considerably by January 1945, a few were still in service up to the end of the war.

As you know, Kagero books are a combination of Polish and English. As you also know, if you have been reading these reviews, Kagero does not use a translator whose primary language is English for the translations. The result is sometimes comical, sometimes frustrating as one runs into syntax roadblocks. Here are a couple of examples from this book. "...during the second decade of May...", "....ten aircraft were destroyed; seven of them beyond repair..", and those are but a few of the interesting things one reads.

To the book's credit, there are a lot of photos and more profiles than I've seen in other Kagero books. The 23 profiles will come in quite handy when doing model work. Each Kagero book has a goodie in it and this one is an etched cockpit fret in 1/72 and 1/48 from Part. It is basically instrument panels, seat belts and rudder pedals, but a welcome addition.

Overall I was left with a positive impression of the book. I learned a great deal and found the combat reports to be very interesting and informative. It is one that you should have if your interest is in the Luftwaffe or the Me-410.

Purchased by me.

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